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Band-in-a-Box for Windows
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Hey folks,

is there something like a possibility to run Biab in a Windows emulation on a new Ipad?
Is that possible with the current models? Or would it be possible to run the Mac version on an Ipad.

For me comming from Win environment, the first choice would be prefered.
What are the options.

Especially the ease of a tabled putting it on a stand of the keyboard would mean very little effort to get started.

What are my chances? :-)

Cheers
Stefan


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The chances of running either Band-in-a-Box program on an Ipad is zero. Band-in-a-Box programs relies on the computer operating systems to work. Tablet operating systems are not compatible with programs designed for computer use.

The only tablet capable of running the Windows Band-in-a-Box program is a Microsoft Surface Pro. That is because the Surface Pro uses a Windows 10 operating system. I don't believe Apple has a tablet that uses the Mac operating system.


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Jim said:

"The only tablet capable of running the Windows Band-in-a-Box program is a Microsoft Surface Pro."

There are a number of manufacturers who make tablets that run the Windows operating system.
I have two from ASUS.
I also have an HP "2 in 1" that can act like a tablet and is quite happy running BIAB.

LLOYD S

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Yes, the key item here is that the device is running a recognized Windows Operating System.


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Originally Posted By: Lloyd S
Jim said:

"The only tablet capable of running the Windows Band-in-a-Box program is a Microsoft Surface Pro."

There are a number of manufacturers who make tablets that run the Windows operating system.
I have two from ASUS.
I also have an HP "2 in 1" that can act like a tablet and is quite happy running BIAB.

LLOYD S


One thing of note - Asus in particular has released a couple of their Transformer tablets that run Windows RT and have a non-Intel compatible CPU (Nvidia Tegra). Band-in-a-Box requires an Intel-compatible CPU.

To get the full BIAB on an iPad or Android tablet it would require a virtual machine running Windows or macOS, which is currently not possible.


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Probalby this would work on an IPAD

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LrLDKYFyLMM&t=321s

Cheers
Stefan


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Great find Stefan!

And you can get the new iPad M1 Pro with (I believe) 128GB of RAM and a 1TB drive!

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just because something is possible doesn't mean its a good idea. what quality of music are you expecting from the iPad?

a tablet may be convenient but small speakers are not ideal

and with apple's pricing you'll b e paying a hefty price for something with the capacity to hold all BIAB's RealTracks

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Originally Posted By: Museeker
Probalby this would work on an IPAD

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LrLDKYFyLMM&t=321s

Cheers
Stefan


To quote the guy: "That’s pretty slow, not the speed of a usable device." He was able to emulate Windows XP slowly, not a modern and stable OS, and certainly not fast enough to do anything you might want to do.

Also, sideloading apps onto iOS devices only allows them to work for 1 week before it expires and you have to re-sideload the app. The way around this is to spend $99 USD per year for an Apple developer account, which would allow the app to run for one year before it expires.


Originally Posted By: Bob Calver
just because something is possible doesn't mean its a good idea. what quality of music are you expecting from the iPad?

a tablet may be convenient but small speakers are not ideal

and with apple's pricing you'll b e paying a hefty price for something with the capacity to hold all BIAB's RealTracks


It's possible to connect headphones, audio interfaces, and speakers to an iPad, which would increase the sound quality immensely.

But yeah, I agree on the price - the cheapest iPad that could even hold all the Realtracks for BIAB costs $550 (iPad Mini 256gb), and BB would use well over half it's available storage space. Compare that to my current Asus UX305 laptop that I literally pulled out of the garbage and repaired for a parts cost of $25 - it's a tiny bit thicker than an iPad and doesn't have as nice of a screen, but it has the same amount of RAM and Storage space as an iPad Pro that would cost $1200 (for a 13" iPad Pro that has 8gb ram and 256gb storage) - add another $200 for a keyboard...


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Stefan.
i would be vewy vewy carefull.
sometimes early adopters get hurt by rapid obsolescence.
there are already rumours of more powerfull processors than M1
in the works. maybe an M2. it seems like a lot of products only last a year these days before a new model comes out to replace the old.
yes i know in concept a tablet seems like a nice idea.
but for what a ipad pro costs (over 1k) you could get a refurb older mac beast plus a refurb hp z workstation beast win pc.
so all bases covered.

simon.

frankly if i had a big budget like that i would go whole hog n get one of these that a lot of big recording studios (and reaper users like)
https://studiocat.com/opencart2/index.php?route=common/home
or heres another vendor
very extreme up to 384 ddr4 of ram and xeons all the way. wow.
https://silentpc.com/daw/studio-digital-audio-workstation
the above really cranks me up. i'm drooling.
notice the 28 cores ?
sorry i'm outta here ; gotta go n buy a lottery ticket lol.

best
oldmuso



Last edited by justanoldmuso; 05/12/21 01:29 PM.

my songs....mixed for good earbuds...(fyi..my vocs on all songs..)
https://soundcloud.com/alfsongs
(90 songs created useing bb/rb)
(lots of tips of mine in pg tips forum.)
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Tacking this on to the discussion of tablets running a full Windows OS on a table instead of trying to make a Windows version work on an iPad (which isn't possible), in order to run Band-in-a-Box successfully, your tablet would need to have the following:

Windows Operating System (not an Android device; as we have all already discussed here - be sure to check out our requirements page for compatible OS versions)
2Ghz processor
A minimum of 2GB RAM
Enough hard drive space to install your package.

However, the small screen size can be problematic when trying to enter songs and navigate through the various drop down menus and windows. At this time, we still recommend that Band-in-a-Box be installed on a desktop or laptop computer, rather than a tablet. But if you are comfortable navigating the smaller screen sizes, you may be content to install it on a tablet running a Windows OS.


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Ember
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I agree with Simon that you can plug in phones and speakers but the OP talked of setting it up on a stand which seemed to me to suggest he was just going to prop it up and play.

There would be little advantage over a small laptop which would easily fit on a music stand

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I'm not a MAC user so pardon my ignorance but wouldn't the MAC version of BIAB run on:
- any iPad?
- a newer iPad?

LLOYD S

Here's the system requirements from PGMusic:

9. What are the recommended system requirements for Band-in-a-Box?
Our most recent version of Band-in-a-Box is designed for Intel-based computers, which should all exceed the minimum requirements. We also have older versions of the program available for PowerPC based OSX systems, and even OS9 systems. The system requirements for the latest version of Band-in-a-Box are:

Mac OS X 10.6 or later
Intel Processor
512 MB RAM
About 2 GB free hard disk space to install the Band-in-a-Box program, MIDI styles, Soloists, Melodists, and Lessons.
Additional hard disk space is required for RealTracks and RealDrums (about 100-400 MB per set), unless you get the hard drive version of the program.
DVD-ROM drive (if installing from disc)
Available USB port (if using Band-in-a-Box on an external USB hard drive).
An external MIDI sound source is not required, since Band-in-a-Box can use the Mac's built-in sounds automatically. However you can also use an external MIDI keyboard or sound module if you wish.

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Originally Posted By: Lloyd S
I'm not a MAC user so pardon my ignorance but wouldn't the MAC version of BIAB run on:
- any iPad?
- a newer iPad?

LLOYD S

Here's the system requirements from PGMusic:

9. What are the recommended system requirements for Band-in-a-Box?
Our most recent version of Band-in-a-Box is designed for Intel-based computers, which should all exceed the minimum requirements. We also have older versions of the program available for PowerPC based OSX systems, and even OS9 systems. The system requirements for the latest version of Band-in-a-Box are:

Mac OS X 10.6 or later
Intel Processor
512 MB RAM
About 2 GB free hard disk space to install the Band-in-a-Box program, MIDI styles, Soloists, Melodists, and Lessons.
Additional hard disk space is required for RealTracks and RealDrums (about 100-400 MB per set), unless you get the hard drive version of the program.
DVD-ROM drive (if installing from disc)
Available USB port (if using Band-in-a-Box on an external USB hard drive).
An external MIDI sound source is not required, since Band-in-a-Box can use the Mac's built-in sounds automatically. However you can also use an external MIDI keyboard or sound module if you wish.


I've highlighted the important parts of the Mac system requirements. BIAB requires both a Mac operating system, which iOS is not, and requires an Intel processor*, which iPads do not have.


*Technically the M1 Macs do not have an Intel processor, but they have an Intel compatibility layer in macOS Big Sur that iOS does not have.


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Band-in-a-Box 2026 Video: AI Stems & Notes - split polyphonic audio into instruments and transcribe

This video demonstrates how to use the new AI-Notes feature together with the AI-Stems splitter, allowing you to select an audio file and have it separated into individual stems while transcribing each one to its own MIDI track. AI-Notes converts polyphonic audio—either full mixes or individual instruments—into MIDI that you can view in notation or play back instantly.

Watch the video.

You can see all the 2026 videos on our forum!

Bonus PAK and 49-PAK for Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Windows®

With your version 2026 for Windows Pro, MegaPAK, UltraPAK, UltraPAK+, Audiophile Edition or PlusPAK purchase, we'll include a Bonus PAK full of great new Add-ons for FREE! Or upgrade to the 2026 49-PAK for only $49 to receive even more NEW Add-ons including 20 additional RealTracks!

These PAKs are loaded with additional add-ons to supercharge your Band-in-a-Box®!

This Free Bonus PAK includes:

  • The 2026 RealCombos Booster PAK: -For Pro customers, this includes 27 new RealTracks and 23 new RealStyles. -For MegaPAK customers, this includes 25 new RealTracks and 23 new RealStyles. -For UltraPAK customers, this includes 12 new RealStyles.
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  • MIDI SuperTracks Set 46: Piano & Organ
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  • Playable RealTracks Set 5
  • RealDrums Stems Set 9: Cool Brushes
  • SynthMaster Sounds Set 1 (with audio demos)
  • Android Band-in-a-Box® App (included)

Looking for more great add-ons, then upgrade to the 2026 49-PAK for just $49 and you'll get:


  • 20 Bonus Unreleased RealTracks and RealDrums with 20 RealStyle.
  • FLAC Files (lossless audio files) for the 20 Bonus Unreleased RealTracks and RealDrums
  • MIDI Styles Set 93: Look Ma! More MIDI 16: SynthMaster
  • MIDI SuperTracks Set 47: More SynthMaster
  • Instrumental Studies 25 - Soul Jazz Guitar Soloing
  • Artist Performance Set 20: Songs with Vocals 10
  • RealDrums Stems Set 10: Groovin' Sticks
  • SynthMaster Sounds & Styles Set 2 (sounds & styles with audio demos)

Learn more about the Bonus PAKs for Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Windows®!

Video: New User Interface (GUI)

Join Tobin as he takes you on a tour of the new user interface in Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Windows®! This modern GUI redesign offers a sleek new look with updated toolbars, refreshed windows, and a smoother workflow. The brand-new side toolbar puts track selection, the MultiPicker Library, and other essential tools right at your fingertips. Plus, our upgraded Multi-View lets you layer multiple windows without overlap, giving you a highly flexible workspace. Many windows—including Tracks, Piano Roll, and more—have been redesigned for improved usability and a cleaner, more intuitive interface, and more!

Watch the video.

You can see all the 2026 videos on our forum!

Introducing XPro Styles PAK 10 – Now Available for Windows Band-in-a-Box 2025 and Higher!

We've just released XPro Styles PAK 10 for Windows & Mac Band-in-a-Box version 2025 (and higher) with 100 brand new RealStyles, plus 28 RealTracks and RealDrums!

Few things are certain in life: death, taxes, and a brand spankin’ new XPro Styles PAK! In this, the 10th edition of our XPro Styles PAK series, we’ve got 100 styles coming your way! We have the classic 25 styles each from the rock & pop, jazz, and country genres, and rounding out this volume's wildcard slot is 25 styles in the Praise & Worship genre! A wide spanning genre, you can find everything from rock, folk, country, and more underneath its umbrella. The included 28 RealTracks and RealDrums can be used with any Band-in-a-Box® 2026 (and higher) package.

Here’s just a small sampling of what you can look forward to in XPro Styles PAK 10: Soft indie folk worship songs, bumpin’ country boogies, gospel praise breaks, hard rockin’ pop, funky disco grooves, smooth Latin jazz pop, bossa nova fusion, western swing, alternative hip-hop, cool country funk, and much more!

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Learn more and listen to demos of XPro Styles PAKs.

Video: XPro Styles PAK 10 Overview & Styles Demos: Watch now!

XPro Styles PAKs require Band-in-a-Box® 2025 or higher and are compatible with ANY package, including the Pro, MegaPAK, UltraPAK, UltraPAK+, and Audiophile Edition.

Introducing Xtra Styles PAK 21 – Now Available for Windows Band-in-a-Box 2025 and Higher!

Xtra Styles PAK 21 for Windows & Mac Band-in-a-Box version 2025 (and higher) is here with 200 brand new RealStyles!

We're excited to bring you our latest Xtra Styles PAK installment—the all new Xtra Styles PAK 21 for Band-in-a-Box version 2025 (and higher)!

Rejoice, one and all, for Xtra Styles PAK 21 for Band-in-a-Box® is here! We’re serving up 200 brand spankin’ new styles to delight your musical taste buds! The first three courses are the classics you’ve come to know and love, including offerings from the rock & pop, jazz, and country genres, but, not to be outdone, this year’s fourth course is bro country! A wide ranging genre, you can find everything from hip-hop, uptempo outlaw country, hard hitting rock, funk, and even electronica, all with that familiar bro country flair. The dinner bell has been rung, pickup up Xtra Styles PAK 21 today!

In this PAK you’ll discover: Energetic folk rock, raucous train beats, fast country boogies, acid jazz grooves, laid-back funky jams, a bevy of breezy jazz waltzes, calm electro funk, indie synth pop, industrial synth metal, and more bro country than could possibly fit in the back of a pickup truck!

Special offers until December 31st, 2025!

All the Xtra Styles PAKs 1 - 21 are on special for only $29 each (reg $49), or get all 21 PAKs for $199 (reg $399)! Order now!

Learn more and listen to demos of the Xtra Styles PAK 21.

Video: Xtra Styles PAK 21 Overview & Styles Demos: Watch now!

Note: The Xtra Styles require the UltraPAK, UltraPAK+, or Audiophile Edition of Band-in-a-Box®. (Xtra Styles PAK 21 requires the 2025 or higher UltraPAK, UltraPAK+, or Audiophile Edition. They will not work with the Pro or MegaPAK version because they need the RealTracks from the UltraPAK, UltraPAK+, or Audiophile Edition.

Introducing XPro Styles PAK 10 – Now Available for Mac Band-in-a-Box 2025 and Higher!

We've just released XPro Styles PAK 10 for Mac & Windows Band-in-a-Box version 2025 (and higher) with 100 brand new RealStyles, plus 28 RealTracks and RealDrums!

Few things are certain in life: death, taxes, and a brand spankin’ new XPro Styles PAK! In this, the 10th edition of our XPro Styles PAK series, we’ve got 100 styles coming your way! We have the classic 25 styles each from the rock & pop, jazz, and country genres, and rounding out this volume's wildcard slot is 25 styles in the Praise & Worship genre! A wide spanning genre, you can find everything from rock, folk, country, and more underneath its umbrella. The included 28 RealTracks and RealDrums can be used with any Band-in-a-Box® 2026 (and higher) package.

Here’s just a small sampling of what you can look forward to in XPro Styles PAK 10: Soft indie folk worship songs, bumpin’ country boogies, gospel praise breaks, hard rockin’ pop, funky disco grooves, smooth Latin jazz pop, bossa nova fusion, western swing, alternative hip-hop, cool country funk, and much more!

Special offers until December 31st, 2025!

All the XPro Styles PAKs 1 - 10 are on sale for only $29 ea (Reg. $49 ea), or get them all in the XPro Styles PAK Bundle for only $149 (reg. $299)! Order now!

Learn more and listen to demos of XPro Styles PAKs.

Video: XPro Styles PAK 10 Overview & Styles Demos: Watch now!

XPro Styles PAKs require Band-in-a-Box® 2025 or higher and are compatible with ANY package, including the Pro, MegaPAK, UltraPAK, UltraPAK+, and Audiophile Edition.

Introducing Xtra Styles PAK 21 – Now Available for Mac Band-in-a-Box 2025 and Higher!

Xtra Styles PAK 21 for Mac & Windows Band-in-a-Box version 2025 (and higher) is here with 200 brand new RealStyles!

We're excited to bring you our latest Xtra Styles PAK installment—the all new Xtra Styles PAK 21 for Band-in-a-Box version 2025 (and higher)!

Rejoice, one and all, for Xtra Styles PAK 21 for Band-in-a-Box® is here! We’re serving up 200 brand spankin’ new styles to delight your musical taste buds! The first three courses are the classics you’ve come to know and love, including offerings from the rock & pop, jazz, and country genres, but, not to be outdone, this year’s fourth course is bro country! A wide ranging genre, you can find everything from hip-hop, uptempo outlaw country, hard hitting rock, funk, and even electronica, all with that familiar bro country flair. The dinner bell has been rung, pickup up Xtra Styles PAK 21 today!

In this PAK you’ll discover: Energetic folk rock, raucous train beats, fast country boogies, acid jazz grooves, laid-back funky jams, a bevy of breezy jazz waltzes, calm electro funk, indie synth pop, industrial synth metal, and more bro country than could possibly fit in the back of a pickup truck!

Special offers until December 31st, 2025!

All the Xtra Styles PAKs 1 - 21 are on special for only $29 each (reg $49), or get all 21 PAKs for $199 (reg $399)! Order now!

Learn more and listen to demos of the Xtra Styles PAK 21.

Video: Xtra Styles PAK 21 Overview & Styles Demos: Watch now!

Note: The Xtra Styles require the UltraPAK, UltraPAK+, or Audiophile Edition of Band-in-a-Box®. (Xtra Styles PAK 21 requires the 2025 or higher UltraPAK, UltraPAK+, or Audiophile Edition. They will not work with the Pro or MegaPAK version because they need the RealTracks from the UltraPAK, UltraPAK+, or Audiophile Edition.

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